Passengers are being urged to avoid London Victoria this morning after a trackside fire in Battersea caused major disruption to train services. Commuters face delays of up to an hour on routes to and from South London, Surrey and Sussex, with services to Gatwick Airport also affected.
The fire broke out shortly after 2pm on Sunday, September 27, near Queenstown Road station. London Fire Brigade said the 'accidental' incident damaged trackside signalling equipment, as well as an area of shrubbery and grassland.
Fire brought under control but damage causes disruption
The fire was brought under control by 3.10pm the same afternoon, but the damage to signalling equipment has led to considerable rail disruption. A limited half-hourly service is currently running between East Croydon and London Victoria this morning.
These services are expected to be extremely busy. While the disruption continues, passengers have been told they can use other National Rail, Tube or Overground services at no extra cost.
Passengers advised to use alternative London terminals
National Rail said: "If you are planning to travel to or from London Victoria this morning, you are strongly advised to use an alternative London terminal instead. We strongly advise that you delay travelling until later today or use an alternative route. Where possible, please travel into alternative London terminals and use the London Underground to complete your journey."
Major disruption is expected to last until at least 2pm this afternoon.
Impact on commuters and travel plans
The disruption is affecting thousands of commuters who rely on London Victoria for their daily travel. The limited service between East Croydon and London Victoria will likely lead to overcrowding, and passengers are advised to plan their journeys with extra time.
For those heading to Gatwick Airport, the disruption adds to travel uncertainty, and passengers are encouraged to check live departure boards before setting off.
The fire incident near Queenstown Road station is a reminder of how vulnerable rail infrastructure can be to accidental damage. London Fire Brigade's quick response helped prevent a more serious situation, but the aftermath continues to impact travel across the region.
Rail operators are working to restore normal service as soon as possible, but with disruption expected to last until at least 2pm, passengers are advised to consider alternative travel arrangements or delay their journeys altogether.
